Recovery and recovery-oriented care emerged out of the Civil Rights movement. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines recovery as "[a] process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self- directed life, and strive to reach their full potential." (SAMHSA, 2016).

Recovery in mental health involves living a full life while living with a mental illness. A person may still experience symptoms; recovery does not mean cure.

Recovery-oriented care is mental health care that supports a person in their recovery. This may include psychotherapy, psychiatric rehabilitation, supported employment, supported education, medication, and other supports geared to helping a person achieve their life goals. Care is not necessarily or only focused on psychiatric symptoms, but instead is a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of hope, home, meaning and purpose.